Music has taught me discipline - Markasoh
Musician and songwriter Belle Markasoh, who hails from Katima Mulilo, says music has always been a powerful force in his life, teaching him discipline, love and care.
In an interview with Namibian Sun last week, Markasoh said music has become a weapon he wields with purpose, capable of building or destroying.
“When I first started in grade 9, back in 2010, my music was all about the vibe. It was raw, reflecting my youthful energy and passion. However, as I matured, so did my music," he explained.
"My first album, 'Numero Uno', was more of just vibes that I made, as I didn’t understand the music industry yet at that time. My second album, ‘Ma Story Ma Story’, was about my experiences with friendships, romantic relationships and the struggle to understand the commercial aspects of the music industry. It was a time of exploration, trying to determine if a career in music was viable in Namibia. This phase was about learning the ropes and understanding the industry."
He said his third album, ‘Inzimbo’, represented a shift in focus.
“It was more reflective, addressing not only my personal experiences but also the broader issues affecting my community. This album was about being mindful of the messages I was putting in my music. It's about the struggles with gender-based violence, unemployment, drug and alcohol abuse and other challenges faced in my community."
Understanding all aspects
Markosah emphasised that he supports upcoming artists and helps them navigate the industry’s challenges.
“Many talented artists struggle because they lack exposure to marketing and management. By sharing my experiences and knowledge, I hope to make their journey easier. Music is more than just recording in a studio; it's about understanding the business and promoting oneself effectively."
Reflecting on the Namibian music industry, he said there is a need to search for stronger and more distinct Namibian identities.
"Many Namibian artists are replicating trends from countries with booming music scenes like Nigeria and South Africa. While it’s good to draw inspiration from successful genres like Amapiano and Afropop, I believe we need to develop a unique sound that can be distinctly recognised as Namibian,” he said.
He added: “Music has taught me valuable lessons and I am committed to using it as a force for positive change. As I continue to grow, I hope to contribute to the evolution of Namibian music, helping it find its place on the global stage.”
[email protected]
In an interview with Namibian Sun last week, Markasoh said music has become a weapon he wields with purpose, capable of building or destroying.
“When I first started in grade 9, back in 2010, my music was all about the vibe. It was raw, reflecting my youthful energy and passion. However, as I matured, so did my music," he explained.
"My first album, 'Numero Uno', was more of just vibes that I made, as I didn’t understand the music industry yet at that time. My second album, ‘Ma Story Ma Story’, was about my experiences with friendships, romantic relationships and the struggle to understand the commercial aspects of the music industry. It was a time of exploration, trying to determine if a career in music was viable in Namibia. This phase was about learning the ropes and understanding the industry."
He said his third album, ‘Inzimbo’, represented a shift in focus.
“It was more reflective, addressing not only my personal experiences but also the broader issues affecting my community. This album was about being mindful of the messages I was putting in my music. It's about the struggles with gender-based violence, unemployment, drug and alcohol abuse and other challenges faced in my community."
Understanding all aspects
Markosah emphasised that he supports upcoming artists and helps them navigate the industry’s challenges.
“Many talented artists struggle because they lack exposure to marketing and management. By sharing my experiences and knowledge, I hope to make their journey easier. Music is more than just recording in a studio; it's about understanding the business and promoting oneself effectively."
Reflecting on the Namibian music industry, he said there is a need to search for stronger and more distinct Namibian identities.
"Many Namibian artists are replicating trends from countries with booming music scenes like Nigeria and South Africa. While it’s good to draw inspiration from successful genres like Amapiano and Afropop, I believe we need to develop a unique sound that can be distinctly recognised as Namibian,” he said.
He added: “Music has taught me valuable lessons and I am committed to using it as a force for positive change. As I continue to grow, I hope to contribute to the evolution of Namibian music, helping it find its place on the global stage.”
[email protected]
Comments
Namibian Sun
No comments have been left on this article